Major Gifts & Annual Giving Manager - Michigan State Bar Foundation

The Major Gifts & Annual Campaign Manager plays a critical role in achieving the Access to Justice (ATJ) Campaign's fundraising goals through the execution of campaign strategies focused on major and planned giving. Reporting to and with guidance from the Director of Development, this position is responsible for generating charitable major gifts from Michigan's law firms and major or planned gifts from individual attorneys.

ABOUT THE MICHIGAN STATE BAR FOUNDATION

Founded in 1947, the Michigan State Bar Foundation (MSBF) provides leadership and grants to improve access to the justice system, including support for civil legal aid for low-income households.  The Foundation administers annual and project grants to increase access to justice and improve the administration of justice throughout Michigan.  With over $210 million granted to date, MSBF supports essential services for low-income individuals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

General

• Build knowledge of Michigan's civil legal aid organizations and cultivate working relationships with each organization. 

Access to Justice Campaign Committees

• Lead fundraising and donor engagement initiatives to secure major charitable gifts from Michigan law firms and planned gifts from individual attorneys.
• Assess the geographic representation of ATJ Committees and actively recruit new members to ensure comprehensive statewide coverage.
• Develop and implement annual work plans aligned with the MSBF strategic plan, tailoring fundraising strategies to meet regional needs and achieve annual giving goals.

Major Gifts and Planned Giving

• Lead and execute fundraising initiatives targeting Michigan law firms, major donors, and planned giving prospects.
• Conduct prospect research to identify individuals, law firms, and corporate counsels with major gift capacity.
• Cultivate and maintain strong donor relationships to expand the donor base and drive engagement.
• Manage donor profiles and track progress through the fundraising pipeline.
• Develop personalized donor stewardship plans, including impact reports and engagement opportunities.
• Collaborate with planned giving advisors through education and outreach efforts.

Marketing and Communication Efforts 

• Support the development of campaign solicitations, donor communications, and donor recognition materials.
• Develop materials for law firm giving, including cy pres gifts, settlement gifts, and major gifts.
• Contribute to campaign content such as media releases, website updates, and annual reports to boost nonprofit visibility and donor engagement.
• Collaborate with the Outreach and Communications Manager to create Leadership Firm impact stories that highlight donor contributions and campaign success.
• Partner with the Development team to build support for civil legal aid and ensure unified messaging for the ATJ Campaign across all offices.

Reporting, Administration, and Data Management

• Ensure accurate data tracking and reporting for major gifts and fundraising activities.
• Monitor progress toward fundraising goals using key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Maintain up-to-date donor and engagement records in the CRM system.
• Support annual progress reporting to leadership for the Access to Justice Campaign and Michigan State Bar Foundation.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS 

• Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE certification or advanced fundraising training preferred.
• Minimum six years of successful fundraising and donor engagement experience in nonprofit or related sectors.
• Hands-on knowledge of planned giving practices, promotion, and methods preferred.
• Proven ability to cultivate, manage, and grow annual and major gifts.
• Strong leadership skills with experience motivating and managing volunteers.
• Excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, and networking skills.
• Proficiency with donor management software (CRM) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively.
• Knowledge of best practices in nonprofit development and fundraising strategies.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary and generous benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization.
• A collaborative, hybrid work environment that values integrity, adaptability, and teamwork. 
• The chance to make a meaningful impact through community-centered and equitable grant programs.

Ready to Apply?

If you're a motivated fundraising professional who shares our commitment to access to justice, apply now to join the ATJ Campaign team at MSBF.

The Michigan State Bar Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in its workforce, creating an inclusive environment, and encouraging members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with disabilities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The Michigan State Bar Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), age, disability/handicap, height, weight, marital status, familial status, veteran status, citizenship, or any other classification protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.

#li-hybrid

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